Former Maharashtra CM Chavan warns of aviation monopoly, seeks breakup of IndiGo

Senior Congress leader and former Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan on Monday (December 8, 2025) cautioned that the concentration of India’s aviation market in the hands of two private players poses a “serious threat” to the economy and passenger interests. He demanded that crisis-hit IndiGo be divided into two companies to restore fair competition.

Addressing reporters in Mumbai, Mr. Chavan noted that IndiGo controls nearly 65% of the domestic market, while the Tata Group’s Air India and AI Express together hold close to 30%. “In 2004, India had 10 operational airlines. Today, only two big companies remain. For 40 crore passengers, this is alarming and will worsen in the future,” he said.

Calling the recent wave of IndiGo flight disruptions “shocking and unfortunate,” he blamed regulatory lapses and alleged collusion between the government and private carriers. He sought the resignation of Union Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu, suspension of IndiGo’s CEO, and action against DGCA officials.

“Our leader Rahul Gandhi has spoken about the impact of the monopoly several times and today we are seeing the worst kind of impact. Monopoly in aviation is dangerous for the country. I am urging the Centre to cap market share at 30% for any airline, split IndiGo into two entities, and revive a national carrier.” He also renewed his call for implementing the Civil Aviation Authority proposed during the UPA era to strengthen oversight.

Crisis and opportunity

Mr. Chavan further demanded a ₹1,000 crore compensation fund for passengers affected by IndiGo’s disruptions and overpriced fares. Accusing the Competition Commission of failing to curb monopolistic practices, he called for its dissolution and replacement with a stronger regulatory body.

Adding a political dimension, Mr. Chavan questioned whether regulatory inaction was linked to political funding. Citing recent data, he alleged that the BJP received ₹56 crore through electoral bonds linked to IndiGo. “This raises serious doubts about conflict of interest and calls for a full audit of political funding from aviation companies,” he said. 

He also expressed concern over reports of Gautam Adani’s plans to expand into aviation, suggesting that IndiGo’s crisis might create an opportunity for the Adani Group. “The possibility of Adani entering the sector makes transparency and strict regulatory oversight even more critical,” Mr. Chavan warned.